One Day
As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. 'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go! Acts 1:10–11 (NLT)
In a Bible Study two weeks ago, we spent a lot of time talking about the two verses above. Some people forgot that Acts mentions Jesus' return immediately following His ascension into heaven. The disciples were still looking up, maybe confused, maybe in awe, when two angels appeared and reminded them that this was not the end, but a beginning. Jesus will return, just as surely as they saw Him go.
That promise is echoed again and again throughout the New Testament, more than 300 times in fact. We are reminded that the Second Coming is not a vague idea, but a central hope of the Christian faith. This promise is a great comfort, especially in times when the world feels dark, uncertain, or broken. It assures us that Jesus hasn’t forgotten us. He will return to restore all things, judge with justice, and bring His people into eternal joy.
Until that day, we are called to be faithful to the work He has entrusted to us. The angels’ question — "Why are you standing here?", is a gentle nudge to us as well. The Christian life isn’t about passively waiting for heaven; it's about actively living for Christ now. We are His witnesses, just as the disciples were, called to share His love, make disciples, care for the needy. We are to live lives that proclaim by word and deed, His grace, truth, and hope.
Let’s not just look up, let’s look around and step into the mission He’s given us, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise of Your return. When the world feels heavy or uncertain, remind us that You are coming back just as You said. Help us to live each day with purpose, faithfulness, and joy as we wait. Stir our hearts to serve You well, love others deeply, and reflect Your light wherever we go. Keep our eyes fixed on You — not only in the sky, but in the work You’ve called us to do here on earth. Amen.